Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager 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 said. "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 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.