Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"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 such distractions."

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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.