Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with 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 this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.