Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk 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 in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother 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 attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

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