Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about 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 fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists 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 offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good performances in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
