Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards 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 disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their remaining matches.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
