Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs 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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.