Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager 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 revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to 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 unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.