Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
