Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return 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 still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears 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 qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong results in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.
