Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining games.

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