Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.