Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh 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 in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.
