Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports 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, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

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

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.