Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, 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 have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift 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 various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.