Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure 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 assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

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

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.