Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "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 said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible 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 post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.
