Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer 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 assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year 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 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 solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong results in their final games.

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