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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

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

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother 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 went on to explain, "First of all, 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 very proud 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, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.