Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 went on to explain, "First of all, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it 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.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.
