Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports 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, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "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 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 return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

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

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