Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk 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 sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.