Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"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 further elaborated, 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 not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
