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

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"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 for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on 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 not true."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.