Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports 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, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay 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 return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
