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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting 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, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

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

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter 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 on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.