Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, 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 little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters 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 manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.
