Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, 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 such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with strong results in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.
