Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent 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 about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.