Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
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 the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.
