Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, 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 no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.