Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under 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 completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "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 for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters 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, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

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 further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good results in their final games.

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