Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Enzo Maresca coaching
Enzo Maresca was once an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City.

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about 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 affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement 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 facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation 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, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.

Laura Miller
Laura Miller

En passionerad livsstilsbloggare som älskar att dela enkla lösningar för en mer harmonisk vardag.