Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports 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 about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect 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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

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