Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: 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 matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.