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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent 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, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention 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.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked 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 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 indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.