Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial 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 talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards 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 perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
