Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk 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, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: 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 publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.