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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled 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 in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. 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 this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field 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 position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.