Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.
