Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

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 speculation. 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.