Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about 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 completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
