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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible 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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.