Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting 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 joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.