Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting 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, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

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

"It doesn't affect 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed 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: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now 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 semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.

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