Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking 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 persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign 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, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.