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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

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

He further elaborated, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.