Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
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 solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
