Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.