Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea'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 definitely remain at the club next season 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 return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good results in their remaining games.

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