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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk 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 about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their final games.

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