Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh 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 rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly 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 remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.