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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about 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 without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach 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 facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.