Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking 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, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards 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 perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.