Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect 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 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, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea'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 manager however affirmed 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 sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.