Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
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 different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
