Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links 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 assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, 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 little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.