Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking 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 ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, 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 more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers 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 strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.