Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 not true."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

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 Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.