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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.