Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

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

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

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

He further elaborated, 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea'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 manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

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

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