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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.

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