Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

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

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their final games.

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