Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, 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 unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
