Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look settled.