Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"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 until 2029. 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely 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 sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for 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 dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.