Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with strong results in their final matches.

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