Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.