Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"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 such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
