Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs 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 said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
