Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, 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 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 not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign 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 match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.