Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.