Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting 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, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, 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 speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.