Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year 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 solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on 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 match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.