Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk 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 responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise 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 last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.

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