Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

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

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated 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 perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.