Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential 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 facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.