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

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

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

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential 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 facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.