Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.