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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.