Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent 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 rumours about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk 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 responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent 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 League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
