Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.