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

Chelsea head coach 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 rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "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 speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.