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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting 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, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under 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 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 just about this club and I'm very proud 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, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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 situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.