Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "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 for several more years. And my attention, 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.