Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect 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 until 2029. 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise 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 results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
