Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
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.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
