Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports 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 ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field 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 results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.