Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking 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, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.