Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
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 grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
