Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to 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 reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.
