Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect 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 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 top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for 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 off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
