Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

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

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.