Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting 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, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.
