Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent 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, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club'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 manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

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

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.