Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking 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, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

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 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 said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk 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 sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on 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, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.