Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.