Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially 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 still create unease.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.