Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded 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 in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.