Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 focus, I have stated 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift 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 building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
