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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

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

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.