Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother 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, "First of all, 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.