Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club'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 definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.