Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking 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, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.