Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"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 these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains 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 apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.