Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester 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 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.