Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
