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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh 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, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

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

He further elaborated, 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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their final matches.

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