Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
