Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking 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 at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans 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.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
