Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention 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 kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
