Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.