Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 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 this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
