Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking 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 persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay 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 return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.