Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man 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 right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on 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 not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
