Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.