Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following 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 words had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong performances in their final games.

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