Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded 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 in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't bother 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.
