Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking 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 ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with 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 set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.