Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Enzo Maresca on the touchline
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential 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 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look settled.

Dennis Henry
Dennis Henry

Elara is a writer and life coach passionate about sharing stories of transformation and resilience.