Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain Following Recent Comments

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

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.