Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 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 said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

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

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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 different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation 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 fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.

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