Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.
"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 these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
