Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk 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, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 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 this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original 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 responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.