Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

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

He went on to explain, "First of all, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

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

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.