Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year 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, Primarily, 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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club'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 manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.