Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under 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 little room for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.
