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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking 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 at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.