Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect 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 went on to explain, 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their final matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look settled.
