Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely 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 ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
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 publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
