Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

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