Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"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, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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 linked with 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 Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
