Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.
