Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 no time 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 said 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.