Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension 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 further elaborated, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.