Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under 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 no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available 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 cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final games.

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