Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother 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, Primarily, 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 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 not true."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.