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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"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 went on to explain, Primarily, 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 speculation. 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 Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.