Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking 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 at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 very proud 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 not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
