Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match 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 continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.