Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager 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 facility, 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 for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong results in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
