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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.