Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running 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 said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
