Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return 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 club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.