Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports 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 persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.