Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists 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 forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.