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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent 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 persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on 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, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed 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 strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.