Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the 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 more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

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

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.