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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

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

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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 post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager 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 revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.