Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent 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 at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs 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 no time 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 honoured 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
