Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting 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, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named 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 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "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 attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea'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" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.