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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 just about this club and I'm very proud 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, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.