Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift 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 facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.
