Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement 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 facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final matches.

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