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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting 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, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, 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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

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 position with good results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.