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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports 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 at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged 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, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.