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

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

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

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.