Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 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 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period 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 asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.
