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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, 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 little room for such distractions."

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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to 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 asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed 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.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.