Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine 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 reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.