Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
