Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager 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 said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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 Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.