Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible 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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season 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 be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

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

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.