Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't bother 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 focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled 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 referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters 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 match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.