Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk 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 rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.