Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother 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 for several more years. And my focus, 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.