Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.
"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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, 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 "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.