Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
Rashid Al-Mansoori is a tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering innovations and digital transformations in the Middle East.
News