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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.