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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.