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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 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 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season 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, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

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

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining matches.

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