Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.