Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 rumour. 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 top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

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

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.