Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking 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 ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs 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 little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, 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 speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain 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, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.