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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking 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 persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 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 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 scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans 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 fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

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