Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded 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 ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it 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 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
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 different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
