Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible 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 talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look settled.