Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 attention, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation 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 replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.