Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud 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, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.