Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man 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 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 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, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, 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 indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.

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