Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, 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 "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
