Blues Manager 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 previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, 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 little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.