Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers 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 apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.