Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 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 these kind of things."

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 just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

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