Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "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 very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start 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 last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.