Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother 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 for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

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

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.