Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man 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 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk 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 called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.