Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses 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 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

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

"It doesn't bother 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 said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.

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 the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.