Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
