Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under 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 stated. "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 until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. 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 this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their final matches.

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