Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect 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 went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.
