Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention 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 continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
