Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"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 focus, 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.