Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

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

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

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their final matches.

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