Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

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

"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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager 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 facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.