Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk 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 at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year 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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position 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 position with strong performances in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.