Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 for several more years. And my focus, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

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

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, 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 indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

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