Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"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 have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.