Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports 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 persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
