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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother 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 not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

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

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.

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