Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, "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 a role in Italy with Juventus. 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 fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

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

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.