Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting 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 persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 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 Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift 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 building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.