Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their final matches.

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