Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting 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, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked 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 sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably 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 Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.