Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement 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 different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look settled.
