Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it 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 After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian 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 indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains 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 resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.