Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester 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 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, 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 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.
