Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

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