Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
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 deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
