Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. 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 fixture.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.
