Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting 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, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
