Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.