Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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 Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. 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 keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.