Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea'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 Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.
