Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked 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 media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
