Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting 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, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters 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, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.