Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh 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, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

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

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games.

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