Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement 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 talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.