Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come 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 asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

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

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

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.