Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation 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 leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.