Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.