Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud 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 not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk 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 facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good results in their final games.

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