Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.
