Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers 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 perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
