Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
