Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return 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 persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't affect 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.