Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

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

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.