Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains 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 mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.