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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports 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 in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud 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, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.