Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.