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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking 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, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.