Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
