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 previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

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

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured 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 apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists 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 apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.