Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.
