Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with 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 lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

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

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look settled.