Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.