Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
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 Remarks
Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available 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 cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising 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 Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.