Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"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 said many times, is just about 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

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

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

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

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