Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud 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 not true."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible 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 facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.