Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh 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, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.