Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' 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 previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.