Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.