Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports 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, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.