Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking 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 surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.