Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, 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 honoured 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 set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
