Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.