Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with 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 fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

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

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound 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 the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.