Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent 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 ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.