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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.