Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"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 focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board 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 equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
