Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent 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 resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.