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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "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 called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter 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 Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

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

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.