Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

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

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "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 stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.