Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed 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 media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong performances in their final games.

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