Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.
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 affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 honoured 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
