Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.