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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, 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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.