Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.
