Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect 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, "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 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 Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.