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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

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 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, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked 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 responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.