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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound 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 atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.

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