Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian 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, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.