Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension 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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible 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 building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.