Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a 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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
