Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential 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, "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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.