Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, 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 honoured 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.