Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.