Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports 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, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.