Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"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 these kind of things."

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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

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

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

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