Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 have stated 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 not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm 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 injured 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 apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
