Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' 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 previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year 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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.