Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting 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, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked 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 Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.