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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

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

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.