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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk 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, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs 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 stated. "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 until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. 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 lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.