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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 honoured 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 not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived 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 publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

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

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.