Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't bother 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.