Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with 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 set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement 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 facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.