Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining matches.

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