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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Remarks

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

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "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 next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter 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 perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

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

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

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.