Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

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

He further elaborated, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

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

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.