Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.
