Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "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 focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."

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

Strain After Previous Remarks

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

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

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.