Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

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

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 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 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good performances in their final matches.

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