Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

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