Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk 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 urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.