Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach 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 at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential 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, "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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain 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 situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.