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

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 just about 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.