Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer 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, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on 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 scheduled 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 previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.