Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift 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 various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.