Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"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, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong results in their final matches.

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