Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent 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 in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
