Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.