Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension 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 these kind of things."
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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled 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 recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable 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 leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture 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 deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.