Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, 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 these kind of things."
He further elaborated, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention 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 After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation 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 replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
