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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a 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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing 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 fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.