Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester 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 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with strong results in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.
