Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.