Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year 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 these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.
