Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager 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 indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter 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 start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look settled.