Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports 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 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 option.
"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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach 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 facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
