Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't affect 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with strong performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
