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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.