Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

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

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

He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

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

When asked 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 Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their final matches.

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