Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother 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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain 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 matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.