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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk 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 ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

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

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

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

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.