Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports 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, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"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 went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with 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 set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning 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 semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.