Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, 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 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 these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread 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 building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.