Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year 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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters 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 however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final matches.

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