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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk 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 at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

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

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.