Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "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 focus, 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

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

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

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