Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

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

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the manager 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 different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.