Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach 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 building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look settled.