Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
