Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian 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 revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return 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 unhealed issue 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 unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

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

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