Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 fixture.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.
