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

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

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

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

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.