Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed 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 Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.