Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain 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 resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.

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