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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 said many times, is solely on 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.