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

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, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"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 went on to explain, "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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.