Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk 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, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

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

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine 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 Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.

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