Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 rumour. 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, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked 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 club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager 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 revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.