Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports 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, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.

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