Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look settled.