Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
