Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud 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 not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on 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 available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
