Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed 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 however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.