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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting 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, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining matches.

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