Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: 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 deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.
