Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting 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, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, 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 these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud 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 in fourth position 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 statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation 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 notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
