Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.