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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

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

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.