Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 linked with 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 this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

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

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager 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 facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on 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, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: 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 deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong results in their final matches.

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