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

Chelsea head coach 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, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.

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