Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.
