Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible 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 building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters 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 fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.
