Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign 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 match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.