Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

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

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential 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 facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a team that was just starting to appear settled.