Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return 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 rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 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 top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact 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 league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
