Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking 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, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
