Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh 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 surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible 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 facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.