Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links 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 previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.