Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after 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 disagreement 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 building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention 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 open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.
