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

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 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 completely unfounded," 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 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 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived 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 matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.