Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

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