Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.