Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking 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 future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.