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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

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

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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.