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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 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 solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.