Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about 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 without foundation."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.