Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect 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 went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
