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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on 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 not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

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

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation 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 leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived 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 resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.