Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible 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 facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.