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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent 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 rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year 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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 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 top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

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

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.