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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"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, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent 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 publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

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