Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' 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 previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.