Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.