Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

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 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks 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 Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.