Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded 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 right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, 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 brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.