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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk 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, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension 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 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

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

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.