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

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "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 Juventus in Italy. 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 on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

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