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

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

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

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.