Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked 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 that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift 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 speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains 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, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.