Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager 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 100% speculation," 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 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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
