Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift 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 building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian 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 indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture 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 still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

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