Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded 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, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed 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 comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential 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 post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.