Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about 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, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm 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 return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.
