Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
