Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 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, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.