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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.