Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.