Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.