Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled 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 at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those initial words had sparked widespread 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 sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

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 publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

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

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.