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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"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 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 solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans 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 in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board 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 resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.