Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach 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 surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

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