Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
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.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
