Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining 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 discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, 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 ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
