Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
