Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 linked with 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 top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
