Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.
"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 for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" 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 pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact 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 semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.
