Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.