Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards 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 perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
