Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. 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 supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
