Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.