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

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

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

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.