Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs 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 no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled 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 sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look settled.
