Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.
