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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports 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 speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect 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 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 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 not true."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated 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: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

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

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

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