Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look settled.