Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting 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 in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. 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 this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
