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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

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

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.