Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking 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 ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters 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 available 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 unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with strong results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.