Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move 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 ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.