Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift 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 speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived 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 matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.
