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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final games.

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