Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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 in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their remaining matches.

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