Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation 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 press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look settled.
