Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, 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 brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.