Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
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 manager 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 completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
