Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh 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 at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.