Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, 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 for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
