Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year 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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look settled.
