Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.