Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking 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 ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, 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 little room for such distractions."

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 honoured 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 without foundation."

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 come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.