Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
