Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under 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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.
