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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "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 very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original 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 club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European 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 beginning to look cohesive.