Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects 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 speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible 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 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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, 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 continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
