Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers 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 perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

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