Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, 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 these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
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 atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
