Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension 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 went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on 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 ignore it 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 Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
