Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 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 completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "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 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 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 scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.