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

Chelsea head coach 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 right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said 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 top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

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

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.