Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed 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 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 for several more years. And my focus, 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, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

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

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.