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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting 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 persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

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

"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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with 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 Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach 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 facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

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

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

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.