Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting 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 about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.