Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding 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 completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."
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 Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.