Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding 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 option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "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 definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.