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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running 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 said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "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 injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect 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 equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their final games.

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