Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
