Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent 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, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.