Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match 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 create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.
