Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.