Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

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

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong results in their remaining games.

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