Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

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

"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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "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 honoured 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 not true."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

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

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

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

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