Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.