Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking 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 ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.