Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.
