Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

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