Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 have stated 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

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

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.