Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters 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 available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.