Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
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John Robertson
John Robertson
John Robertson
John Robertson