Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension 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 for several more years. And my attention, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.