Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.