Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move 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 ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled 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 leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
