Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.