Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded 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, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed 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 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans 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: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
