Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

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

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

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. 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 lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.