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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans 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 fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League 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 just starting to appear cohesive.