Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a 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 completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.