Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

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

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final matches.

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