Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "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 focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain 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 publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.