Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh 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, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 until 2029. 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 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.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.