Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans 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, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
