Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 focus, I have stated many times, is solely on 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, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look settled.