Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

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