Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking 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, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs 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 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 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible 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 talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans 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 in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.