Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
