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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 attention, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.