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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.