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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.