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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year 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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists 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 offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.