Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, 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 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.