Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

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

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.