Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"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 such distractions."
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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
