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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports 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 speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.