Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "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 definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists 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 offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining games.

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