Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year 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 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 solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

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

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture 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 continues to create unease.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.