Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year 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 these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
