Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "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 focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

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

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.