Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding 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 affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "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 speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea'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 Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining games.

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