Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

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

"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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

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

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift 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 building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look settled.