Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk 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 persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
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 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 lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.