Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting 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 speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.
