Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting 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, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, 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 these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter 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: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
