Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.