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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

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 running until 2029, 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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect 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 situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look settled.