Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension 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 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.