Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. 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 this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.
