Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move 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 speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 honoured 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
