Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs 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 these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
