Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach 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 talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
