Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"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 focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention 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 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
