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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach 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 building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season 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 sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.