Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports 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 in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"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 attention, 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 Juventus in Italy. 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 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers 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 apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong performances in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.
