Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Recent Comments

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

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

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

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