Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
