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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"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 attention, 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

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

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good results in their final games.

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