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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

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 matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their remaining games.

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