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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking 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 ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk 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 replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.