Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk 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 at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.