Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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 right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

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

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain 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, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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 deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.