Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 linked with 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 scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.