Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking 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 persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
