Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"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 solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks 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 facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: 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 final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.