Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 very proud 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain 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 in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look settled.
