Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' 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, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager 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 talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning 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 draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.