Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. 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 lunchtime kick-off.
Maresca's latest statement come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
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