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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement 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 facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.