Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.