Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under 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 said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "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 very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "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 "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for 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 situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.