Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester 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, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

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

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach 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 talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining games.

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