Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 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 lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
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 equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.