Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

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

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.