Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension 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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters 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 Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.