Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

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 solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.