Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk 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 at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"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 further elaborated, "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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.