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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.