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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.