Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
