Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"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 these kind of things."

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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.