Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a 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 little room 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 solely on 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 not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.