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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under 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 no time for such distractions."

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

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club'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 manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

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

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