Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

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

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 for several more years. 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it 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 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their final matches.

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