Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 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 in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, 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 next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances 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 look cohesive.