Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

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

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

"It doesn't affect 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 attention, I have stated many times, is solely on 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

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

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager 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 building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.