Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

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

"It doesn't bother 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 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.