Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.
