Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
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 in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.
"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 until 2029. 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.