Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters 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 Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

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