Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent 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 future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters 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 available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.