Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled 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, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a 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 further elaborated, "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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with 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 set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.